President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of Nigerian children, in a heartfelt address to mark the 2025 National Children’s Day.
In his message, President Tinubu described children as “the pride and future of our great nation,” pledging continued efforts to nurture them into the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. He emphasized the government’s constitutional and moral duty to protect every child and uphold their rights.
The President lauded this year’s theme, *Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” calling it timely and essential. “Violence, bullying, and neglect have no place in the Nigeria of today,” he said, citing alarming statistics that show 65% of Nigerian school-age children have experienced some form of bullying or aggression.
Under his Renewed Hope Agenda, President Tinubu highlighted several policy measures aimed at child protection. These include the full implementation of the National Plan of Action on Ending Violence Against Children (2024–2030), the ongoing review of the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015), and enforcement of the Cybercrime Act to combat cyberbullying and exploitation.
He also acknowledged the domestication of the Child Rights Act in all 36 states, calling it a significant milestone. However, he stressed that laws alone are not enough and called on parents, educators, faith leaders, and citizens to play active roles in child welfare.
The President further announced investments in national systems such as the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), community-based child protection programs, and plans to establish a dedicated institutional framework for Child Protection and Development.
“Our goal is to ensure every Nigerian child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment, free from violence, with the opportunity to thrive,” Tinubu concluded.
